Written by Dr. Krishna Reddy, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon
Greetings! I’m Dr. Reddy, your friendly Orthopedic Surgeon at the Adams County Regional Medical Center (ACRMC). Let’s have an important conversation about “Ensuring Orthopedic Success for Student Athletes Beyond High School.” High school sports can be a thrilling and transformative experience for young athletes, but it’s crucial to recognize that sports injuries during these formative years can have lasting impacts. As parents and grandparents, you play a vital role in safeguarding the orthopedic health of your young athletes, even beyond their school years.
High school sports can be physically demanding, and injuries are not uncommon. These injuries can range from sprains and strains to more severe issues like fractures and ligament tears. While some injuries may seem minor at the time, their long-term effects can be significant:
Injuries such as repeated stress on joints may result in chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, leading to joint pain and reduced mobility over time. Additionally, untreated or improperly managed ligament tears can result in instability and long-term joint damage. Fractures, if not adequately treated and rehabilitated, may cause lasting pain and diminished function. Furthermore, young athletes are particularly vulnerable to overuse injuries, which can have lasting implications for their performance and orthopedic health in the future.
Here are some steps parents and grandparents can take to ensure orthopedic success for student-athletes beyond high school:
Early Intervention: If your young athlete sustains an injury, seek prompt medical attention and follow through with recommended treatments and rehabilitation.
Proper Training: Encourage your athlete to participate in conditioning programs and receive proper coaching to reduce the risk of injuries.
Balanced Participation: Avoid excessive specialization in one sport. Encourage your athlete to engage in a variety of physical activities to promote overall musculoskeletal health.
Rest and Recovery: Ensure your young athlete gets adequate rest between practices and games to prevent overuse injuries.
Nutritional Support: A balanced diet is essential for maintaining bone and muscle health. Consult a nutritionist if needed.
Monitoring Growth: Keep an eye on your athlete’s growth and development, as rapid growth can increase the risk of certain injuries.
Professional Guidance: Consult with orthopedic specialists and physical therapists to ensure that any injuries are properly managed, reducing the risk of long-term complications.
In collaboration with local schools, the Adams County Regional Medical Center has taken a proactive step to support student-athletes. We’ve partnered with these schools to provide an Athletic Trainer dedicated to the well-being of young athletes. Athletic trainers specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses. They also carry out rehabilitation programs for injured athletes, ensuring that they receive the best care possible.
Your involvement and support, along with the assistance of dedicated professionals like our Athletic Trainer, play a crucial role in your young athlete’s orthopedic journey. By prioritizing their physical well-being and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can help ensure that they enjoy a lifetime of musculoskeletal health.
